Online learning is an option that is gaining popularity with students in Canada. According to the Canadian Online Education Research Association , only 11% of college admissions were in full online mode in September 2019. In January 2021, with the pandemic in full swing, online learning pranced at 71% height.

Of course, the figures for admission in full online mode may have dropped slightly since the moderation of health restrictions. However, e-learning is expected to remain in high demand even after the pandemic.

Some online programs, like several programs offered by Herzing College, also include internships or work placements. These placements provide valuable work experience with organizations in your area, but must be done face-to-face.

Keep in mind that some online courses may require your occasional presence on campus. Be sure to review all program details before enrolling.

1. Adapt your studies to your other commitments

Studying online gives you the flexibility to design your schedule according to your needs. You may need to log in at specific times for a group chat or real-time class. However, many programs give you the ability to interact with course content and complete assignments at times that are convenient for you.

If you’re looking to continue your education without giving up your full-time job or compromising your family obligations, an online program might be the right option for you.

In fact, according to the 2022 Online Education Trends Report , it is this ability to fit studies with work and family obligations that is the main reason students choose to study online rather than face-to-face.

2. Study anywhere

First, e-learning is not dependent on a specific geographic location, you have no limits on the choice of programs available in your area. There is no need on your side to relocate and move to another city; you can access an online course from an institution located thousands of miles away, without depriving yourself of the comfort of your home.

Second, you can follow your studies at your leisure if you wish. As long as you have an internet connection, you can continue your studies at the café, on the bus, at an acquaintance or relative’s, a hotel, or anywhere else. You can thus let yourself be tempted by digital nomadism. 

3. Create your own learning environment

Online learning gives you the freedom to set up your workspace on your own terms. Students who attend classes face-to-face can also set up their workspace from home; the difference is that online students have the advantage of doing all their learning in their personalized space.

Do you like to sit next to a window? Want to avoid fluorescent lighting? Want to block out environmental nuisances? Want background music? Go for it.

You can choose your own seat, adjust the height of your keyboard, or even work from your kitchen if you feel like it.

Having control over your learning environment can be a huge advantage, especially if you have specific functional needs or special sensory sensitivities.

4. Take control of the course material

In a traditional lesson, you only have one chance to jot down everything you need to memorize. If you get distracted or lose focus, you might miss the most important things. Conversely, when it is a recorded course, you can stop and resume the video as much as you want. You could target the highlights first, then take the time to write everything down in detail afterwards.

Additionally, when textual or written content is digitized, it gives you the ability to search for important keywords and concepts more quickly.

Because online learners have continuous access to course content, you’ll be able to do whatever you need at a time that suits you, whether it’s 3:00 a.m. or 3:00 p.m.

5. Hone your time management skills

In traditional learning, a schedule is imposed on you – you are required to attend classes at specific times. But when you study online, you will have to create your own structure and your own routine.

This means that you will put your organizational and priority management skills as well as your punctuality to the test of e-learning. As you progress through your online courses, you will need to develop your personal discipline and time management skills.

These skills are crucial to your success in today’s world. Many employers look favorably on applicants with the time management skills required for online studies.

6. Improve your communication skills

In a world where remote working has become a norm, being able to communicate effectively through various virtual channels is very important.

Taking an online program will help you improve your communication skills. By participating in online discussions, interacting with instructors and classmates through various messaging platforms, you will learn to ask specific questions in a clear, concise and respectful manner.

If your program includes real-time video chats, you will become familiar with virtual etiquette: where to watch, when to mute the microphone, what kind of background to use, etc.

These skills will help you in your future career, where communicating (and collaborating) with people from all over the world might be required.

College student participating in a virtual chat Online programs can help you learn about virtual etiquette

7. Learn new technical skills

During an online program, you will be exposed to new tools, systems, and software. This will encourage you to develop useful technical skills well beyond the period of your studies.

One of the first things you will become familiar with is your program’s own learning management system. You might even gain experience with file sharing services, conferencing software, messaging platforms, and project management tools.

By opting for an online program, you demonstrate to potential employers that you are capable of learning and adapting to new technologies.